Sassafras

Sassafras albidum

Identification Hints

Leaves are produced on green twigs and occur in three distinct shapes: oval, two-lobed (mitten-shaped), and three-lobed. Leaves and twigs are spicy fragrant when crushed or scratched. Small yellow flowers are produced along with the young leaves. The olive-sized black fruit is produced in a distinctive red cup. This small tree is typically found in open woods and thickets.